The Space Needs New Space

Early in 2011, the dream of three Island women came true. Donna Swift, founder of the nonprofit IMP Improv for Kids; Sandy Stone, a Zumba teacher; and Katryn Yerdon Gilbert, a personal fitness and strength-training instructor came together in 1,000 square feet of what used to be Brad Hill's Vineyard Fitness Center. "I was in Sandy's Zumba class when I heard about the Fitness Center closing and we had the same thought of maybe this will work—and it did."

Inspired by their own need for space, they decided to take their find to the next level and offered low rents for those who were also looking for space. Soon, The Space became home to MV Capoeira, Ballroom Dance MV, Pilates with Judy Kranz and MV Glee. Yoga with Emily Phillips was scheduled to begin this month.

Now this business and community success story has taken an unfortunate turn. Having only signed a month-to-month lease in order to make sure their venture was a success before committing to a longer term, the owners of The Space were recently handed their walking papers, with two weeks to find someplace else to go. 

According to Swift, who isn't sure who the new tenant is, the new tenants have signed a longer lease for the remaining sections of the fitness center, and need The Space's 1,000 square feet, as well. "It's nobody's fault, really," said Swift. "It's just business, but it's also a bummer."

The Space, with its wood floors and mirrored walls, was set up perfectly for both fitness and performing arts. The addition of detachable black curtains and donated chairs from the Yard made it a welcome for productions, as well. It was "just perfect in size—especially for new, younger performers," said Swift. During the darkest and longest part of the winter, The Space boasted between 60 to 90 people per week walking through its doors, depending on what types of classes and performances were taking place.

Because IMP has a large summer camp program, they have always operated out of the Edgartown School, and will be able to do so this summer. However, "when I told my middle school students it would be OK since we have the school and other places we could work, they said, 'Yes, but that is not ours,'" said Swift. Similarly, without The Space, the rest of the tenants and occupants are now finding themselves scrambling to find places to work at a point in the season when most other places are full and schedules are set.

As this effort grew out of a desire to create something for the community, the owners and renters of The Space are hoping the community will be able to lend a hand in helping The Space find a new home. "This happened right at a time when everything is filling up," said Swift. "We'd love to stay in Edgartown; we'd love to find a place with wood floors, mirrors and a sound system, but right now any creative ideas or solutions are welcome."

To contact Donna Swift with any leads or suggestions, call 508-939-9368 or email thespacemv@gmail.com